The Pistons are beginning to develop a solid foundation consisting of big men Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond along with point guard Brandon Knight. The next step is finding a young, athletic wing player who can score and defend. One such player has emerged as a realistic trade acquisition in Wilson Chandler of the Denver Nuggets.

 

Chandler, a 6'8" guard/forward and five-year vet, has career averages of 13.7 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. His athleticism provides him with a variety of ways to score as well as defend multiple positions.

 

Unfortunately, Chandler has missed most of this season with a hip injury. He's also battled other injuries throughout his career, which began with the New York Knicks before he was included in the blockbuster deal that sent Carmelo Anthony to the Big Apple. Chandler also played most of last season in China before, during and after the NBA Lockout.

 

By all means, acquiring Chandler is a risky move for any team that does so. He needs to prove that he can stay healthy enough to remain a fixture at the top of a team's rotation. The Nuggets have plenty of depth already at his position with veterans Andre Iguodala, Danilo Gallinari and Corey Brewer, and Denver could determine it's best to deal Chandler now while he has quality value at the young age of 25.

 

The Pistons do have a player who would fit in nicely with the young Nuggets, who are trying to become more than just a playoff team in the NBA's stacked Western Conference. Tayshaun Prince is a seasoned veteran with championship experience who is ready to transition into a smaller role on a veteran team looking to compete for a title. He would be a solid fit in Nuggets coach George Karl's system.

 

A swap of Chandler-for-Prince works in terms of the salary cap, and it's a trade that makes sense for both teams for basketball purposes. Chandler, when healthy, would give the Pistons that athletic perimeter player they covet. Born and raised in Benton Harbor, Chandler also appeals to local fans and could generate buzz for a team that needs this type of a splash.

 

Denver will surely take their time to see if Chandler, who is just now returning from his hip injury, is able to play and contribute period. The Nuggets will also look to see who would offer the best in return for a Chandler trade, but Prince gives them a nice veteran who has won on the NBA's biggest stage. This is Denver's biggest need, and the Pistons would be wise to propose this to them.